Segmented ball with lighted elements

ABSTRACT

Embodiments of the instant invention include lighted bounceable toys for play and amusement. Such toys or structures can be made in an infinite number of graceful and useful configurations. Exemplary bounceable ball toys include a light assembly having a power source and a plurality of light emitting elements, and a spherical skeletal structure having a plurality of segments. The spherical skeletal structure defines an open interior cavity, and at least some segments of the skeletal structure include a channel opening that faces toward the interior cavity. Light emitting elements transmit light to the channel openings.

CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is related to U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,509,929, 5,110,315, and6,086,445, and U.S. patent application Ser. Nos. 10/744,962 filed Dec.23, 2003, 11/015,387 filed Dec. 16, 2004, 11/152,020 filed Jun. 13,2005, and 11/558,350 filed Nov. 9, 2006, the entire contents of each ofwhich are incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Embodiments of the invention relate generally to the field of toys, andin particular to devices and methods that involve lighted segmentshaving curved or angular profiles. Embodiments of the present inventionprovide toys or objects for use as balls, therapeutic instruments, babytoys, pet toys, beach or pool rafts, and the like.

The incorporation of lighted features has provided the basis for avariety of toys and other useful objects. Although such toys and objectshave been generally commercially successful, it would be desirable toprovide certain innovations and diversifying features. For these andother reasons, there continues to be a need for improved toy systems andother useful and decorative structures. Embodiments disclosed hereinprovide solutions to such needs.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Embodiments of the instant invention address these and other unfulfilledneeds by providing systems, devices, and methods involving toys withlighted segments, which provide appealing stimulation to the visual andtactile senses. Such toys or structures can be made in an infinitenumber of graceful and decorative configurations. Moreover, theseobjects can function as bounceable, rollable, throwable, inflatable, orfloatable devices, as diversion tranquilizers for occupying a user'shands and attention, and as toys for general amusement and artisticinspiration.

In one aspect, embodiments of the present invention include a bounceableball toy. The toy includes a light assembly having a power source and aplurality of light emitting diodes. The toy also includes a sphericalskeletal structure having a plurality of segments, where the sphericalskeletal structure defining an open interior cavity. At least somesegments of the skeletal structure have a channel opening that facestoward the interior cavity. The light emitting diodes are disposed atleast partially within the channel openings. In some cases the sphericalskeletal structure defines at least two apertures that provide fluidcommunication between the open interior cavity and an ambient spacedisposed outside of an external boundary defined by the skeletalstructure. The light assembly may be configured to direct light toward asurface of the channel opening. In some cases, at least some of thesegments have a portion that is transparent or translucent to light.Optionally, the light assembly includes a wire that is disposed at leastpartially within the channel openings.

In another aspect, embodiments of the present invention encompass abounceable ball toy that includes a light assembly and a skeletalstructure. The skeletal structure may include a plurality of segments,and may define an open interior cavity. In some cases, one or moresegments of the skeletal structure include a support. The light assemblycan be configured to direct light into the supports. A support mayinclude a channel, a lumen, a bulb, a tube, a passage, or the like. Insome cases, a support includes a channel having a concave surface thatfaces toward the open interior cavity. In related cases, the lightassembly is configured to direct light toward the concave surface of thechannel. Optionally, the support may include a lumen, and the lightassembly can have a light emitting element disposed within the lumen.

In still another aspect, embodiments of the present invention include atoy having a light assembly and a skeletal structure. The skeletalstructure can have at least one segment, and can define an open interiorcavity. The light assembly can be configured to direct light into atleast one segment of the skeletal structure or into a core moduledisposed at least partially within the skeletal structure. In somecases, the light assembly includes a light emitting diode or aglowstick. In some cases, a segment or core module includes a channel,and the light assembly includes a light emitting diode or a glowstickconfigured to direct light toward or through a surface of the channel.Optionally, a segment or core module can have a lumen, and the lightassembly can have a light emitting diode configured to direct lighttoward or through a surface of the lumen. The skeletal structure maydefine two or more apertures that provide fluid communication betweenthe open interior cavity and an ambient space disposed outside of anexternal boundary defined by the skeletal structure. The skeletalstructure may also define a shape such as a sphere, a spheroid, aprolate spheroid, an oblate spheroid, an ellipsoid, a toroid, a geodesicsphere, or the like. In some cases, a light assembly may include aprocessor. In some cases, the skeletal structure may be coupled with alogo plate. The logo plate can include a filter, an aperture, or any ofa variety of translucent, transparent, or opaque components ormaterials. In some embodiments, a core module may have one or morestruts. Optionally, a core module may include a platform. In some cases,a skeletal structure includes a thermoplastic resin having a durometerof about 60.

In yet another aspect, embodiments of the present invention encompass amethod of making a bounceable ball toy. An exemplary method may includecoupling a power source holder with a plurality of light emitting diodesto form a light assembly, and coupling the light assembly with aspherical skeletal structure having a plurality of segments. At leastsome segments of the skeletal structure may have a channel opening thatfaces toward an open interior cavity defined by the skeletal structure.A light emitting diode may be disposed at least partially within achannel opening. The method may also include placing a power source inoperative association with the power source holder. In some methods, askeletal structure segment may include a material that is transparent ortranslucent to light. In some methods, a power source holder can beattached with a skeletal structure segment.

According to some aspects, embodiments of the present invention includea method of making a toy that includes, for example, providing a lightassembly, and coupling the light assembly with a skeletal structure. Theskeletal structure may define an open interior cavity. In some methods,the skeletal structure defines two or more apertures that provide fluidcommunication between the open interior cavity and an ambient spacedisposed outside of an external boundary defined by the skeletalstructure. In some methods, the skeletal structure includes a channelfacing toward the open interior cavity, and the light assembly isconfigured to direct light toward the channel. Optionally, the skeletalstructure may include a lumen, and the light assembly can be configuredto illuminate an interior space of the lumen. In some methods, theskeletal structure includes a portion that is transparent or translucentto light. According to certain method embodiments, the light assemblyincludes a glowstick, or a power source holder having connectivity witha plurality of light emitting elements.

For a fuller understanding of the nature and advantages of the presentinvention, reference should be had to the ensuing detailed descriptiontaken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a toy according to embodimentsof the present invention.

FIG. 2 illustrates an exploded perspective view of a toy according toembodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 3 illustrates an exploded perspective view of a toy according toembodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of a toy according to embodimentsof the present invention.

FIGS. 5 to 5E show aspects of a toy according to embodiments of thepresent invention.

FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of a toy according to embodimentsof the present invention.

FIG. 7 illustrates a perspective view of a toy according to embodimentsof the present invention.

FIG. 8 illustrates a perspective view of a toy according to embodimentsof the present invention.

FIG. 9 illustrates a perspective view of a toy according to embodimentsof the present invention.

FIG. 10 illustrates a perspective view of a toy according to embodimentsof the present invention

FIGS. 11 to 11B show aspects of a toy according to embodiments of thepresent invention.

FIGS. 12 to 12B show aspects of a toy according to embodiments of thepresent invention.

FIGS. 13 to 13B show aspects of a toy according to embodiments of thepresent invention.

FIG. 14 shows aspects of a toy according to embodiments of the presentinvention.

FIGS. 15A-1 and 15A-2 show aspects of a toy according to embodiments ofthe present invention.

FIGS. 15B-1 and 15B-2 show aspects of a toy according to embodiments ofthe present invention.

FIGS. 15C-1 and 15C-2 show aspects of a toy according to embodiments ofthe present invention.

FIGS. 16A and 16B show aspects of toys according to embodiments of thepresent invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Turning now to the drawings, FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of atoy according to embodiments of the present invention. Toy 100 includesa skeletal structure 110 having a plurality of segments 120. Skeletalstructure 110 defines an open interior cavity 130. Typically, openinterior cavity 130 is in fluid communication with an ambient space orenvironment 160 disposed outside of the toy. As such, at some locationsthe segments themselves may provide a separation or boundary betweeninterior cavity 130 and ambient space 160, whereas in other places theremay be no physical barrier between the cavity and the ambient space.Hence, in some embodiments it may be helpful to describe a boundaryenvelope 150 that corresponds to, and in some cases is defined by, theskeletal structure. Boundary envelope 150 can have a shape similar tothat of the skeletal structure. As shown in FIG. 1, boundary envelope150 can have a generally spherical shape that corresponds to thespherical shape outline of skeletal structure 110. In a geometric sense,boundary envelope 150 can define an outer limit of open interior cavity130, particularly in locations there is no physical separation betweenthe interior cavity and the ambient space provided by the skeletalstructure itself. Optionally, open interior cavity 130 may be in fluidcommunication with ambient space 160 via a plurality of apertures 112which are defined by skeletal structure 110. Segments 120 can havesupports 122 such as channels or lumens. As shown here, toy 100 alsoincludes a light assembly 140 having a power source 142 and a pluralityof light emitting diodes (LEDs) 144. Light assembly 140 includes a wireor conducting element 146 that conducts electricity between power source142 and LEDs 144. Light assembly 140 can be configured to direct light148 into a plurality of supports 122.

As shown in FIG. 1A, a toy operator 10 a can throw a toy 100 a toward asurface 101 a. As toy 100 a strikes surface 101 a, the toy or portionsthereof can elastically deform or deflect such that the toy subsequentlybounces. FIG. 1B depicts an elastic deflection 102 b of one or moresegments of a toy 100 b as it contacts or collides with surface 101 b.Similarly, a user can hold the toy in their hand, and deform the toy byapplying a compressive force. The application of force by the userprovides strengthening for the hand and finger muscles as well asrehabilitation for the joints. Simultaneously, the operator may enjoythe visual display provided by the lighting assembly of the toy. One ormore segments of the toy can be coated with any of a variety ofmaterials. The coatings on the segments may be any type of color, mayinclude translucent or transparent material, and may have a variety ofthicknesses, textures, durometers, compression deflection pressures, andthe like. Merely by way of example, the thickness of the coating may bein the range from about 1 mm to about 6 mm, and more preferably fromabout 2 mm to about 4 mm. Examples of textures that may be used includedots, detents, dimples, lines, roughened, smooth, sticky, and the like.

FIG. 2 illustrates an exploded perspective view of a toy according toembodiments of the present invention. Toy 200 includes a skeletalstructure 210 having a plurality of segments 220. Skeletal structure 210defines an open interior cavity 230. In some embodiments, open interiorcavity 230 is in fluid communication with an ambient space 260 disposedat the outside of the toy. Optionally, open interior cavity 230 may bein fluid communication with ambient space 260 via a plurality ofapertures 212 defined by skeletal structure 210. Segments 220 can havesupports 222 such as channels or lumens. As shown here, toy 200 alsoincludes a light assembly 240 having a power source 242 and a pluralityof light emitting diodes (LEDs) 244. Light assembly 240 also includes awire 246 that conducts electricity between power source 242 and LEDs244. Light assembly 240 can be configured to direct light 248 into aplurality of supports 222.

As shown here, skeletal structure 210 can be constructed from a firstportion 214 and a second portion 216. These portions may be coupledtogether in any of a variety of ways. For example, first portion 214 caninclude a plurality of posts 215, and second portion 216 can include aplurality of receptacles 217 that are adapted to receive posts 215. Inthe embodiment depicted here, first portion 214 and second portion 216represent two hemispherical components, which form skeletal structure210 when coupled together.

FIG. 3 illustrates an exploded perspective view of a toy according toembodiments of the present invention. Toy 300 includes a skeletalstructure 310 having a plurality of segments 320. Skeletal structure 310defines an open interior cavity 330. In some embodiments, open interiorcavity 330 is in fluid communication with an ambient space 360 disposedoutside of the toy. Optionally, open interior cavity 330 may be in fluidcommunication with ambient space 360 via a plurality of apertures 312defined by skeletal structure 310. Segments 320 can have supports 322such as channels or lumens. In some cases, one or more segments may notinclude a support. Toy 300 also includes a light assembly 340.Optionally, light assembly may include a power source 342. Lightassembly 340 includes one or more light emitting elements 344. In somecases, light emitting element 344 may include a light emitting diode(LED), an organic light emitting diode (OLED), or the like. Similarly,light emitting element may include a fluorescent or incandescent light.A light emitting element may emit light radiation at any of a variety ofwavelengths. For example, a light emitting element may emit infrared,visible, or ultraviolet light. Light assembly 340 also includes one ormore wires 346 that conduct electricity between power source 342 andlight emitting element 344.

As shown here, skeletal structure 310 can be constructed from a firstportion 314 and a second portion 316. These portions may be coupledtogether in any of a variety of ways. For example, first portion 314 caninclude a plurality of posts 315, and second portion 316 can include aplurality of receptacles 317 that are adapted to receive posts 315. Insome embodiments, first portion 314 and second portion 316 represent twohemispherical components, which form skeletal structure 310 when coupledtogether. Toy 300 also includes a platform 370 configured to support orhold light assembly 340. Platform 370 can be coupled with skeletalstructure 310 as desired. For example, platform 370 can include aplurality of apertures 372 which are adapted to receive posts 315therethrough. Light assembly 340 can be configured to direct light 348into a plurality of supports 322. As noted elsewhere herein, supports322 can include channels or lumens.

FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of a toy according to embodimentsof the present invention. Toy 400 includes a skeletal structure 410having a single segment 420. In this sense, skeletal structure 410 maypresent a unitary or monolithic structure. Skeletal structure 410defines an open interior cavity 430. In some embodiments, open interiorcavity 430 is in fluid communication with an ambient space 460 disposedoutside of the toy. Optionally, open interior cavity 430 may be in fluidcommunication with ambient space 460 via one or more apertures 412 whichare defined by skeletal structure 410. Segment 420 can have one ore moresupports 422 such as channels or lumens. As shown here, toy 400 alsoincludes a light assembly 440. Optionally, light assembly may include apower source 442. Light assembly 440 includes one or more light emittingelements 444. Light assembly 440 can be configured to direct light 448into one or more supports 422.

FIG. 5 shows a portion of a toy according to embodiments of the presentinvention. Toy 500 includes a skeletal structure 510 having a segment520. As shown here, segment 520 includes a channel 522 that can receivelight 548 emitted from a light assembly 540. FIG. 5A shows across-section of a skeletal structure segment 520 a of a toy, accordingto embodiments of the present invention. The toy includes a lightemitting element 544 a disposed at least partially within a channel 522a of segment 520 a. Light emitting element 544 a is configured toilluminate channel 522 a with light 548 a. In some cases, light 548 a isreflected from the surface of segment 520 a, as indicated by arrow A. Insome cases, light 548 a is transmitted through segment 520 a. Forexample, light 548 a can be transmitted through segment 520 a, asindicated by arrow B. Light reflecting and transmitting properties ofsegment 520 a may depend on the material used to construct the segment.For example, segment 520 a or a portion thereof may include a reflectivesurface material, such as a mirror, which reflects light. Similarly,segment 520 a or a portion thereof may include a transparent materialsuch as glass, or a translucent material such as frosted glass, whichallows light to pass therethrough. Segment 520 a can be configured toprovide light reflection or transmission, in either a diffuse orspecular fashion. In some cases, segment 520 a or a portion thereof mayinclude an opaque material, through which light cannot pass. FIG. 5Bshows a cross-section of a skeletal structure segment 520 b of a toy,according to embodiments of the present invention. The toy includes alight emitting element 544 b disposed outside of channel 522 b. Lightemitting element 544 b is configured to illuminate channel 522 b withlight 548 b. In some cases, light 548 b is reflected from the surface ofsegment 520 b, as indicated by arrow A. In some cases, light 548 b istransmitted through segment 520 b. For example, light 548 b can betransmitted through segment 520 b, as indicated by arrow B. Lightreflecting and transmitting properties of segment 520 b may depend onthe material used to construct the segment. For example, segment 520 bor a portion thereof may include a reflective surface material, such asa mirror, which reflects light. Similarly, segment 520 b or a portionthereof may include a transparent material such as glass, or atranslucent material such as frosted glass, which allows light to passtherethrough. Segment 520 b can be configured to provide lightreflection or transmission, in either a diffuse or specular fashion. Insome cases, segment 520 b or a portion thereof may include an opaquematerial, through which light cannot pass. FIG. 5C shows a cross-sectionof a skeletal structure segment 520 c of a toy, according to embodimentsof the present invention. Segment 520 c presents a tubular or closedconfiguration. The toy includes a light emitting element 544 c disposedwithin a lumen 522 c. Light emitting element 544 c is configured toilluminate channel 522 c with light 548 c. Light 548 c is transmittedthrough segment 520 c. For example, light 548 c can be transmittedthrough segment 520 c, as indicated by arrow B. Light transmittingproperties of segment 520 c may depend on the material used to constructthe segment. For example, segment 520 c or a portion thereof may includea transparent material such as glass, or a translucent material such asfrosted glass, which allows light to pass therethrough. Segment 520 ccan be configured to provide light transmission, in either a diffuse orspecular fashion. In some cases, segment 520 c or a portion thereof mayinclude an opaque material, through which light cannot pass. As shown inFIG. 5D, in some embodiments a light emitting element 544 d or anotherportion of a light assembly can be directly coupled with or adjacent tosegment 520 d. For example, light emitting element 544 d can be attachedwith a segment surface 521 d of segment 520 d that is disposed withinchannel 522 d. FIG. 5E shows a similar construction, where lightemitting element 544 e is attached with or adjacent to a segment surface521 e of segment 520 e, where segment surface 521 e is disposed withinlumen 522 e.

In addition to the shapes depicted in FIGS. 1-4, embodiments of thepresent invention provide skeletal structures having generally sphericalshapes in other desired or useful configurations. FIG. 6 illustrates aperspective view of a toy according to embodiments of the presentinvention. The toy includes looped or bent segments, such as thosedescribed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/558,350 filed Nov. 9,2006, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Toy600 includes a skeletal structure 610 having one or more segments 620.Skeletal structure 610 defines an open interior cavity 630. In someembodiments, open interior cavity 630 is in fluid communication with anambient space 660 disposed outside of the toy. Optionally, open interiorcavity 630 may be in fluid communication with ambient space 660 via oneor more apertures 612 which are defined by skeletal structure 610.Segment 620 can have one ore more supports 622 such as channels orlumens. As shown here, toy 600 also includes a light assembly 640.Optionally, light assembly may include a power source 642. Lightassembly 640 includes one or more light emitting elements 644. Lightassembly 640 can be configured to direct light 648 into one or moresupports 622. Wire 646 can conduct electricity from power source 642 tolight emitting elements 644.

FIG. 7 illustrates a perspective view of a toy according to embodimentsof the present invention. Toy 700 includes a skeletal structure 710having one or more segments 720. Toy 700 can provide a soccer ball typeof shape or construction. Skeletal structure 710 defines an openinterior cavity 730. In some embodiments, open interior cavity 730 is influid communication with an ambient space 760 disposed outside of thetoy. Optionally, open interior cavity 730 may be in fluid communicationwith ambient space 760 via one or more apertures 712 which are definedby skeletal structure 710. Segment 720 can have one ore more supports722 such as channels or lumens. As shown here, toy 700 also includes alight assembly 740. Optionally, light assembly may include a powersource 742. Light assembly 740 includes one or more light emittingelements 744. Light assembly 740 can be configured to direct light 748into one or more supports 722. Wire 746 can conduct electricity frompower source 742 to light emitting elements 744.

FIG. 8 illustrates a perspective view of a toy according to embodimentsof the present invention. Toy 800 can provide a continuous weave type ofshape or construction. Toy 800 includes a skeletal structure 810 havingone or more segments 820. Skeletal structure 810 defines an openinterior cavity 830. In some embodiments, open interior cavity 830 is influid communication with an ambient space 860 disposed outside of thetoy. Optionally, open interior cavity 830 may be in fluid communicationwith ambient space 860 via one or more apertures 812 which are definedby skeletal structure 810. Segment 820 can have one ore more supports822 such as channels or lumens. As shown here, toy 800 also includes alight assembly 840. Optionally, light assembly may include a powersource 842. Light assembly 840 includes one or more light emittingelements 844. Light assembly 840 can be configured to direct light 848into one or more supports 822. Wire 846 can conduct electricity frompower source 842 to light emitting elements 844.

FIG. 9 illustrates a perspective view of a toy according to embodimentsof the present invention. Toy 900 can provide a pentagon type of shapeor construction. Toy 900 includes a skeletal structure 910 having one ormore segments 920. Skeletal structure 910 defines an open interiorcavity 930. In some embodiments, open interior cavity 930 is in fluidcommunication with an ambient space 960 disposed outside of the toy.Optionally, open interior cavity 930 may be in fluid communication withambient space 960 via one or more apertures 912 which are defined byskeletal structure 910. Segment 920 can have one ore more supports 922such as channels or lumens. As shown here, toy 900 also includes a lightassembly 940. Optionally, light assembly may include a power source 942.Light assembly 940 includes one or more light emitting elements 944.Light assembly 940 can be configured to direct light 948 into one ormore supports 922. Wire 946 can conduct electricity from power source942 to light emitting elements 944.

FIG. 10 illustrates a perspective view of a toy according to embodimentsof the present invention. Toy 1000 can provide a football type of shapeor construction, configured to present a lighted message. Toy 1000includes a skeletal structure 1010 having one or more segments 1020.Skeletal structure 1010 defines an open interior cavity 1030. In someembodiments, open interior cavity 1030 is in fluid communication with anambient space 1060 disposed outside of the toy. Optionally, openinterior cavity 1030 may be in fluid communication with ambient space1060 via one or more apertures 1012 which are defined by skeletalstructure 1010. Segment 1020 can have one ore more supports 1022 such aschannels or lumens. As shown here, toy 1000 also includes a lightassembly 1040. Optionally, light assembly may include a power source1042. Light assembly 1040 includes one or more light emitting elements1044. Light assembly 1040 can be configured to direct light 1048 intoone or more supports 1022. Wire 1046 can conduct electricity from powersource 1042 to light emitting elements 1044. Toy 1000 may also include aprocessor 1007 coupled with or integrated into lighting assembly 1040.Processor 1007 can be configured to activate and deactivate lightemitting elements 1044 as desired. For example, processor 1007 can beconfigured to activate and deactivate light emitting elements 1004 in asequence so that toy 1000 presents a lighted text message or otherpattern when toy 1000 spins or rotates about an axis 1008 as indicatedby arrow A, such as when toy 1000 it thrown by a toy user.

FIG. 11 illustrates an exploded perspective view of a toy according toembodiments of the present invention. Toy 1100 includes a skeletalstructure 1110 having a plurality of segments 1120. Skeletal structure1110 defines an open interior cavity 1130. In some embodiments, openinterior cavity 1130 is in fluid communication with an ambient space1160 disposed outside of the toy. Optionally, open interior cavity 1130may be in fluid communication with ambient space 1160 via a plurality ofapertures 1112 defined by skeletal structure 1110. Segments 1120 canhave supports 1122 such as channels or lumens. In some cases, one ormore segments may not include a support. Toy 1100 also includes a lightassembly 1140. Optionally, light assembly may include a power source1142, such as one or more button cell batteries, and a PC board orprocessor 1107 which contains a tangible medium embodyingmachine-readable code for controlling activation of the light emittingelements. Light assembly 1140 includes one or more light emittingelements 1144 that emit light 1148. In some cases, light emittingelement 1144 may include a light emitting diode (LED), an organic lightemitting diode (OLED), or the like. Similarly, light emitting elementmay include a fluorescent or incandescent light. A light emittingelement may emit light radiation at any of a variety of wavelengths. Forexample, a light emitting element may emit infrared, visible, orultraviolet light. Light assembly 1140 may also includes one or morewires that conduct electricity between power source 1142 and lightemitting element 1144.

As shown here, skeletal structure 1110 can be constructed from a firstportion 1114 and a second portion 1116. These portions may be coupledtogether in any of a variety of ways. For example, first portion 1114can include a plurality of receptacles 1115, and second portion 1116 caninclude a plurality of posts 1117 that are adapted to insert intoreceptacles 1115. In some embodiments, first portion 1114 and secondportion 1116 represent two components, which form a skeletal structure1110 having a prolate spheroid shape, such as an American footballshape, when coupled together. As shown here, toy 1100 can also includeend caps 1103 and a logo plate 1104 which can be coupled with skeletalstructure 1110. Toy 1100 also includes a platform 1170 configured tosupport or hold light assembly 1140. Platform 1170 can include supports1122 such as channels or lumens. Platform 1170 can be coupled withskeletal structure 1110 as desired. For example, platform 1170 caninclude one or more struts 1171 that attach with skeletal structure1110. Optionally, struts 1171 may include one or more apertures 1172which are adapted to receive posts 1117 therethrough. In some cases, aplatform can be constructed of one or more pieces. For example, platform1170 is depicted here as a composite structure that includes platformtop bracket 1170 i and platform bottom bracket 1170 ii. As shown in FIG.11A, a light emitting element 1144 a can be disposed within, orpositioned to direct light 1148 a into, a support 1122 a such as achannel or lumen of a platform 1170 a. Light emitting element 1144 a canalso transmit light 1148 a into or toward a support 1122 a such as achannel or lumen of a strut 1171 a. For example, support 1122 a ofplatform 1170 a can transmit light 1148 a, as indicated by arrow A, andsupports 1122 a of struts 1171 a can transmit light 1148 a, as indicatedby arrows B. Light emitting element 1144 a can also direct or projectlight as indicated by arrow C beyond a support 1122 a, platform 1170 a,or struts 1171 a, toward or onto a skeletal structure, or toward or ontoor through a logo panel or plate associated with the structure, orthrough an aperture in a skeletal structure toward an ambient space orenvironment. In some cases, a light emitting element 1144 b can bedisposed within, and configured to direct light 1148 b into, a support1122 b such as a channel or lumen of a strut 1171 b, as shown in FIG.11B. Relatedly, light emitting element 1144 b can be disposed withinsupport 1122 b of strut 1171 b, and configured to direct or transmitlight toward or within support 1122 b of platform 1170 b. For example,support 1122 b of platform 1170 b can transmit light 1148 b, asindicated by arrow A, and supports 1122 b of struts 1171 b can transmitlight 1148 b, as indicated by arrows B. Light emitting element 1144 bcan also direct or project light as indicated by arrow C beyond asupport 1122 b, platform 1170 b, or struts 1171 b, toward or onto askeletal structure, or through an aperture in a skeletal structuretoward an ambient space or environment.

FIG. 12 illustrates an exploded perspective view of a toy according toembodiments of the present invention. Toy 1200 includes a skeletalstructure 1210 having a plurality of segments 1220. Skeletal structure1210 defines an open interior cavity 1230. In some embodiments, openinterior cavity 1230 is in fluid communication with an ambient space1260 disposed outside of the toy. Optionally, open interior cavity 1230may be in fluid communication with ambient space 1260 via a plurality ofapertures 1212 defined by skeletal structure 1210. Segments 1220 canhave supports 1222 such as channels or lumens. In some cases, one ormore segments may not include a support. Toy 1200 also includes a lightassembly 1240. Optionally, light assembly may include a power source1242, such as one or more button cell batteries, and a PC board orprocessor 1207 which contains a tangible medium embodyingmachine-readable code for controlling activation of the light emittingelements. Light assembly 1240 includes one or more light emittingelements 1244 that emit light 1248. In some cases, light emittingelement 1244 may include a light emitting diode (LED), an organic lightemitting diode (OLED), or the like. Similarly, light emitting elementmay include a fluorescent or incandescent light. A light emittingelement may emit light radiation at any of a variety of wavelengths. Forexample, a light emitting element may emit infrared, visible, orultraviolet light. Light assembly 1240 may also includes one or morewires that conduct electricity between power source 1242 and lightemitting element 1244.

As shown here, skeletal structure 1210 can be constructed from a firstportion 1214 and a second portion 1216. These portions may be coupledtogether in any of a variety of ways. For example, first portion 1214can include a plurality of receptacles 1215, and second portion 1216 caninclude a plurality of posts 1217 that are adapted to insert intoreceptacles 1215. In some embodiments, first portion 1214 and secondportion 1216 represent two generally hemigeodesic or semigeodesiccomponents, which form a skeletal structure 1210 having a geodesic shapewhen coupled together. Toy 1200 also includes a platform 1270 configuredto support or hold light assembly 1240. As shown here, platform 1270 caninclude a removable cap 1273, such as a snap lid. Platform 1270 caninclude supports 1222 such as channels or lumens. Platform 1270 can becoupled with skeletal structure 1210 as desired. For example, platform1270 can include one or more struts 1271 that attach with skeletalstructure 1210. Optionally, struts 1271 may include one or moreapertures 1272 which are adapted to receive posts 1217 therethrough. Insome cases, a platform can be constructed of one or more pieces. Forexample, platform 1270 is depicted here as a composite structure thatincludes platform top bracket 1270 i and platform bottom bracket 1270ii. As shown in FIG. 12A, a light emitting element 1244 a can bedisposed within, or positioned to direct light 1248 a into, a support1222 a such as a channel or lumen of a platform 1270 a. Light emittingelement 1244 a can also transmit light 1248 a into or toward a support1222 a such as a channel or lumen of a strut 1271 a. For example,support 1222 a of platform 1270 a can transmit light 1248 a, asindicated by arrow A, and supports 1222 a of struts 1271 a can transmitlight 1248 a, as indicated by arrows B. Light emitting element 1244 acan also direct or project light as indicated by arrow C beyond asupport 1222 a, platform 1270 a, or struts 1271 a, toward or onto askeletal structure, or through an aperture in a skeletal structuretoward an ambient space or environment. In some cases, a light emittingelement 1244 b can be disposed within, and configured to direct light1248 b into, a support 1222 b such as a channel or lumen of a strut 1271b, as shown in FIG. 12B. Relatedly, light emitting element 1244 b can bedisposed within support 1222 b of strut 1271 b, and configured to director transmit light toward or within support 1222 b of platform 1270 b.For example, support 1222 b of platform 1270 b can transmit light 1248b, as indicated by arrow A, and supports 1222 b of struts 1271 b cantransmit light 1248 b, as indicated by arrows B. Light emitting element1244 b can also direct or project light as indicated by arrow C beyond asupport 1222 b, platform 1270 b, or struts 1271 b, toward or onto askeletal structure, or through an aperture in a skeletal structuretoward an ambient space or environment.

FIG. 13 illustrates an exploded perspective view of a toy according toembodiments of the present invention. Toy 1300 includes a skeletalstructure 1310 having a plurality of segments 1320. Skeletal structure1310 defines an open interior cavity 1330. In some embodiments, openinterior cavity 1330 is in fluid communication with an ambient space1360 disposed outside of the toy. Optionally, open interior cavity 1330may be in fluid communication with ambient space 1360 via a plurality ofapertures 1312 defined by skeletal structure 1310. Segments 1320 canhave supports 1322 such as channels or lumens. In some cases, one ormore segments may not include a support. Toy 1300 also includes a lightassembly 1340. As shown here, light assembly 1340 can include one ormore light emitting elements 1344 that emit light 1348. Light emittingelement 1344 may include, for example, a glowstick or lightstick. Suchlight emitting elements typically include chemicals that are capable ofproducing light through chemoluminescence. An exemplary glowstickincludes an outer plastic tube that holds a fluorescent dye, a derivateof phenyl oxalate ester, and an inner breakable glass vial containinghydrogen peroxide. In use, an operator can bend the outer plastic tubewhich in turn breaks the inner vial, thus allowing the hydrogen peroxideto react with the phenyl oxalate ester. Energy released from thisreaction excites the dye, and the excited dye releases light. The colorof the emitted light is determined by the dye structure. A glowstick canhave any desired shape.

As shown here, skeletal structure 1310 can be constructed from a firstportion 1314 and a second portion 1316. These portions may be coupledtogether in any of a variety of ways. For example, first portion 1314can include a plurality of receptacles 1315, and second portion 1316 caninclude a plurality of posts 1317 that are adapted to insert intoreceptacles 1315. In some embodiments, first portion 1314 and secondportion 1316 represent two generally hemigeodesic or semigeodesiccomponents, which form a skeletal structure 1310 having a geodesic shapewhen coupled together. Toy 1300 also includes a platform 1370 configuredto support or hold light assembly 1340. As shown here, platform 1370 caninclude a removable cap 1373, such as a snap lid. Platform 1370 caninclude supports 1322 such as channels or lumens. Platform 1370 can becoupled with skeletal structure 1310 as desired. For example, platform1370 can include one or more struts 1371 that attach with skeletalstructure 1310. Optionally, struts 1371 may include one or moreapertures 1372 which are adapted to receive posts 1317 therethrough. Insome cases, a platform can be constructed of one or more pieces. Forexample, platform 1370 is depicted here as a composite structure thatincludes platform top bracket 1370 i and platform bottom bracket 1370ii. As shown in FIG. 13A, a light emitting element 1344 a can bedisposed within, or positioned to direct light 1348 a into, a support1322 a such as a channel or lumen of a platform 1370 a. Light emittingelement 1344 a can also transmit light 1348 a into or toward a support1322 a such as a channel or lumen of a strut 1371 a. For example,support 1322 a of platform 1370 a can transmit light 1348 a, asindicated by arrow A, and supports 1322 a of struts 1371 a can transmitlight 1348 a, as indicated by arrows B. Light emitting element 1344 acan also direct or project light as indicated by arrow C beyond asupport 1322 a, platform 1370 a, or struts 1371 a, toward or onto askeletal structure, or through an aperture in a skeletal structuretoward an ambient space or environment. In some cases, a light emittingelement 1344 b can be disposed within, and configured to direct light1348 b into, a support 1322 b such as a channel or lumen of a strut 1371b, as shown in FIG. 13B. Relatedly, light emitting element 1344 b can bedisposed within support 1322 b of strut 1371 b, and configured to director transmit light toward or within support 1322 b of platform 1370 b.For example, support 1322 b of platform 1370 b can transmit light 1348b, as indicated by arrow A, and supports 1322 b of struts 1371 b cantransmit light 1348 b, as indicated by arrows B. Light emitting element1344 b can also direct or project light as indicated by arrow C beyond asupport 1322 b, platform 1370 b, or struts 1371 b, toward or onto askeletal structure, or through an aperture in a skeletal structuretoward an ambient space or environment.

FIG. 14 illustrates additional features of a core module or interiorsupport module, according to embodiments of the present invention. Toy1400 includes a skeletal structure 1410 coupled with a core module 1490.As shown here, core module 1490 includes a platform 1470 and a pluralityof struts 1471. Struts 1471 can be configured in any of a variety ofthree dimensional orientations. For example, a first strut may bealigned along a X-axis, a second strut may be aligned along a Y-axis,and a third strut may be aligned along a Z-axis. A strut can imparttensile strength to a skeletal structure. Skeletal structure 1410, coremodule platform 1470, core module strut 1471, or any combinationthereof, may include one or more supports 1422 such as channels orlumens. In some cases, a strut support may be in continuouscommunication with a skeletal structure support, so that lighttransmitted through the strut support can travel into the skeletalstructure support, and light transmitted through the skeletal structuresupport can travel into the strut support. Core module 1490 can becoupled with skeletal structure 1470, such that a first strut 1471 i ofcore module 1490 is coupled with skeletal structure 1470 at a firstlocation 1471 a, and a second strut 1471 ii of core module 1490 iscoupled with skeletal structure 1470 at a second location 1471 b. Firstlocation 1471 a and second location 1471 b can be connected by a line1473, such that the line represents a chord. As shown here, such a lineor chord passes through the interior of the skeletal structure.

Skeletal structure 1410 of toy 1400 defines an open interior cavity1430. Typically, open interior cavity 1430 is in fluid communicationwith an ambient space or environment 1460 disposed outside of the toy.As such, at some locations the skeletal structure itself may provide aseparation or boundary between interior cavity 1430 and ambient space1460, whereas in other places there may be no physical barrier providedby the skeletal structure between the cavity and the ambient space.Optionally, open interior cavity 1430 may be in fluid communication withambient space 1460 via a plurality of apertures 1412 which are definedby skeletal structure 1410. Skeletal structure 1410 can have supports1422 such as channels or lumens. As shown here, toy 1400 also includes alight assembly 1440 having a power source 1442 and a plurality of lightemitting diodes (LEDs) 1444. Light assembly 1440 includes a wire orconducting element 1446 that conducts electricity between power source1442 and LEDs 1444. Light assembly 1440 can be configured to directlight 1448 into a plurality of supports 1422.

In some embodiments, one or more struts 1471 may include an accordionconfiguration. As depicted here, a strut 1471 may include an innersegment 1471 c, an outer segment 1471 d, and a housing segment 1471 edisposed between the inner and outer segments. In some cases, housingsegment 1471 can be configured to house a light emitting element. Strutsand housing elements may also include supports such as lumens, channels,passages, and the like, configured to house or contain variouscomponents of a light assembly, including light emitting elements,wires, processors, energy source holders, energy sources, and the like.

FIG. 15A-1 illustrates a toy according to embodiments of the presentinvention. Toy 1500 a includes a skeletal structure 1510 a having aplurality of segments 1520 a. Skeletal structure 1510 a defines an openinterior cavity 1530 a. In some embodiments, open interior cavity 1530 ais in fluid communication with an ambient space 1560 a disposed outsideof the toy. Optionally, open interior cavity 1530 a may be in fluidcommunication with ambient space 1560 a via a plurality of apertures1512 a defined by skeletal structure 1510 a. Segments 1520 a can havesupports 1522 a such as channels or lumens. In some cases, one or moresegments may not include a support. Toy 1500 a also includes a lightassembly 1540 a. Optionally, light assembly may include a power source1542 a, such as one or more button cell batteries, and a PC board orprocessor 1507 a which contains a tangible medium embodyingmachine-readable code for controlling activation of the light emittingelements. Light assembly 1540 a includes one or more light emittingelements 1544 a that emit light 1548 a. In some cases, light emittingelement 1544 a may include a light emitting diode (LED), an organiclight emitting diode (OLED), or the like. Similarly, light emittingelement may include a fluorescent or incandescent light. A lightemitting element may emit light radiation at any of a variety ofwavelengths. For example, a light emitting element may emit infrared,visible, or ultraviolet light. Light assembly 1540 a may also includesone or more wires that conduct electricity between power source 1542 aand light emitting element 1544 a.

Skeletal structure 1510 a can present a prolate spheroid shape, such asan American football shape. Toy 1500 a can also include end caps 1503 aand a logo plate 1504 a which can be coupled with skeletal structure1510 a. Toy 1500 a also includes a light assembly 1540 a that cantransmit light toward, onto, or through supports 1522 a such as channelsor lumens. Toy 1500 a may also include platform and strut assemblies, asdescribed elsewhere herein. As shown here, logo plate 1504 a includes acontour 1504 a′ and a plurality of apertures 1504 a″, and is configuredto present a shaped outline, template, or silhouette of a logo or othergraphic element. The logo or other graphic element can represent any ofa variety of companies, brand names, groups, projects, persons,organizations, or any other desired organization, item, devices,process, or the like. As shown here, the combination of the contour andapertures can provide a stylized type, either alone or in conjunctionwith a graphic representation. Toy 1500 a is configured so that lighttransmitted from or emitted by various light emitting elements can passthrough apertures 1504 a″, or along the outer edges of contour 1504 a′.In this way, toy 1500 a can present a variety of light presentations toan toy operator or user, or to any observer. For example, light passingthrough apertures 1504 a″ can provide or present one or more lightbeams, where the shape of each light beam corresponds to the shape ofthe individual aperture though which that beam passes, so as to presenta toy operator with an image of the word “TANGLE”. Optionally, logoplate 1504 a can include supports within the body 1504 a′″ of the logoplate, and the supports can transmit light in such a way that lightemitted from the body 1504 a″' presents a toy operator with an inverseimage of the word “TANGLE”. FIG. 15A-2 shows that light 1548 a can passthrough aperture 1504 a′, so as to present a viewer with a lighted imageor beam having a shape that corresponds to the shape of the aperture.

FIG. 15B-1 illustrates a toy according to embodiments of the presentinvention. Toy 1500 b includes a skeletal structure 1510 b having aplurality of segments 1520 b. Skeletal structure 1510 b defines an openinterior cavity 1530 b. In some embodiments, open interior cavity 1530 bis in fluid communication with an ambient space 1560 b disposed outsideof the toy. Optionally, open interior cavity 1530 b may be in fluidcommunication with ambient space 1560 b via a plurality of apertures1512 b defined by skeletal structure 1510 b. Segments 1520 b can havesupports 1522 b such as channels or lumens. In some cases, one or moresegments may not include a support. Toy 1500 b also includes a lightassembly 1540 b. Optionally, light assembly may include a power source1542 b, such as one or more button cell batteries, and a PC board orprocessor 1507 b which contains a tangible medium embodyingmachine-readable code for controlling activation of the light emittingelements. Light assembly 1540 b includes one or more light emittingelements 1544 b that emit light 1548 b. In some cases, light emittingelement 1544 b may include a light emitting diode (LED), an organiclight emitting diode (OLED), or the like. Similarly, light emittingelement may include a fluorescent or incandescent light. A lightemitting element may emit light radiation at any of a variety ofwavelengths. For example, a light emitting element may emit infrared,visible, or ultraviolet light. Light assembly 1540 b may also includesone or more wires that conduct electricity between power source 1542 band light emitting element 1544 b.

Skeletal structure 1510 b can present a prolate spheroid shape, such asan American football shape. Toy 1500 b can also include end caps 1503 band a logo plate 1504 b which can be coupled with skeletal structure1510 b. Toy 1500 b also includes a light assembly 1540 b that cantransmit light toward, onto, or through supports 1522 b such as channelsor lumens. Toy 1500 b may also include platform and strut assemblies, asdescribed elsewhere herein. As shown here, logo plate 1504 b includes afirst portion 1504 b′ and a plurality of second portions 1504 b″, and isconfigured to present a shaped outline, template, or silhouette of alogo or other graphic element. The logo or other graphic element canrepresent any of a variety of companies, brand names, groups, projects,persons, organizations, or any other desired organization, item,devices, process, or the like. As shown here, the combination of thefirst portion and the second portions can provide a stylized type,either alone or in conjunction with a graphic representation. Toy 1500 bis configured so that light transmitted from or emitted by various lightemitting elements can pass through first portion 1504 b′, or throughsecond portions 1504 b″. In some cases, first or second portions mayinclude transparent or translucent materials, optionally colored,through which light may pass. In some cases, first or second portionsmay include opaque materials, through which light may not pass. In thisway, toy 1500 b can present a variety of light presentations to an toyoperator or user, or to any observer. For example, light passing throughsecond portions 1504 b″ can provide or present one or more light beamsor projections, where the shape of each light beam or projectioncorresponds to the shape of the individual portion though which thatlight passes, so as to present a toy operator with an image of the word“TANGLE”. Optionally, logo plate 1504 b can include supports within thebody 1504 b′″ of the logo plate, and the supports can transmit light insuch a way that light emitted from the body 1504 b′″ presents a toyoperator with an inverse image of the word “TANGLE”. FIG. 15B-2 showsthat light 1548 b′ can pass through first portion 1504 b′, so as topresent a viewer with a lighted image or beam having a shape thatcorresponds to the shape of first portion 1504 b′, and light 1548 b″ canpass through second portion 1504 b″, so as to present a viewer with alighted image or beam having a shape that corresponds to the shape ofsecond portion 1504 b″. Light 1548 b′ and light 1548 b″ typically differin intensity, color, hue, temperature, value, saturation, luminosity, orany other light characteristic, so that a viewer can discriminatebetween light passing through first portion 1504 b′, and light passingthrough second portion 1504 b″.

FIG. 15C-1 illustrates a toy according to embodiments of the presentinvention. Toy 1500 c includes a skeletal structure 1510 c having aplurality of segments 1520 c. Skeletal structure 1510 c defines an openinterior cavity 1530 c. In some embodiments, open interior cavity 1530 cis in fluid communication with an ambient space 1560 c disposed outsideof the toy. Optionally, open interior cavity 1530 c may be in fluidcommunication with ambient space 1560 c via a plurality of apertures1512 c defined by skeletal structure 1510 c. Segments 1520 c can havesupports 1522 c such as channels or lumens. In some cases, one or moresegments may not include a support. Toy 1500 c also includes a lightassembly 1540 c. Optionally, light assembly may include a power source1542 c, such as one or more button cell batteries, and a PC board orprocessor 1507 c which contains a tangible medium embodyingmachine-readable code for controlling activation of the light emittingelements. Light assembly 1540 c includes one or more light emittingelements 1544 c that emit light 1548 c. In some cases, light emittingelement 1544 c may include a light emitting diode (LED), an organiclight emitting diode (OLED), or the like. Similarly, light emittingelement may include a fluorescent or incandescent light. A lightemitting element may emit light radiation at any of a variety ofwavelengths. For example, a light emitting element may emit infrared,visible, or ultraviolet light. Light assembly 1540 c may also includesone or more wires that conduct electricity between power source 1542 cand light emitting element 1544 c.

Skeletal structure 1510 c can present a prolate spheroid shape, such asan American football shape. Toy 1500 c can also include end caps 1503 cand a logo plate 1504 c which can be coupled with skeletal structure1510 c. Toy 1500 c also includes a light assembly 1540 c that cantransmit light toward, onto, or through supports 1522 c such as channelsor lumens. Toy 1500 c may also include platform and strut assemblies, asdescribed elsewhere herein. As shown here, logo plate 1504 c includes acontour 1504 c′ and a plurality of filters 1504 c″, and is configured topresent a shaped outline, template, or silhouette of a logo or othergraphic element. In some cases, a filter may include transparent ortranslucent materials, optionally colored, through which light may pass.In some cases, a filter may include opaque materials, through whichlight may not pass. The logo or other graphic element can represent anyof a variety of companies, brand names, groups, projects, persons,organizations, or any other desired organization, item, devices,process, or the like. As shown here, the combination of the contour andfilters can provide a stylized type, either alone or in conjunction witha graphic representation. Toy 1500 c is configured so that lighttransmitted from or emitted by various light emitting elements can passthrough filters 1504 c″, or along the edges of contour 1504 c′. In thisway, toy 1500 can present a variety of light presentations to an toyoperator or user, or to any observer. For example, light passing throughfilters 1504 c″ can provide or present one or more light beams, wherethe shape of each light beam corresponds to the shape of the individualaperture though which that beam passes, so as to present a toy operatorwith an image of the word “TANGLE”. Optionally, logo plate 1504 caninclude supports within the body 1504 c′″ of the logo plate, and thesupports can transmit light in such a way that light emitted from thebody 1504 c′″ presents a toy operator with an inverse image of the word“TANGLE”. In some cases, a filter 1504 c″ may include a support havinglighting assembly elements contained therein. FIG. 15C-2 shows thatlight 1548 c can pass along the edge of filter 1504 c′, so as to presenta viewer with an lighted image or beam having a shape that correspondsto the inverse shape of the filter.

FIG. 16A illustrates a toy according to embodiments of the presentinvention. Toy 1600 a includes a skeletal structure 1610 a having aplurality of segments 1620 a. Skeletal structure 16510 a defines an openinterior cavity 1630 a. In some embodiments, open interior cavity 1630 ais in fluid communication with an ambient space 1660 a disposed outsideof the toy. Optionally, open interior cavity 1630 a may be in fluidcommunication with ambient space 1660 a via a plurality of apertures1612 a defined by skeletal structure 1610 a. Segments 1620 a can havesupports 1622 a such as channels or lumens. In some cases, one or moresegments may not include a support. Toy 1600 a also includes a lightassembly 1640 a. Optionally, light assembly may include a power source1642 a, such as one or more button cell batteries, and a PC board orprocessor 1607 a which contains a tangible medium embodyingmachine-readable code for controlling activation of the light emittingelements. Light assembly 1640 a includes one or more light emittingelements 1644 a that emit light 1648 a. In some cases, light emittingelement 1644 a may include a light emitting diode (LED), an organiclight emitting diode (OLED), or the like. Similarly, light emittingelement may include a fluorescent or incandescent light. A lightemitting element may emit light radiation at any of a variety ofwavelengths. For example, a light emitting element may emit infrared,visible, or ultraviolet light. Light assembly 1640 a may also includesone or more wires that conduct electricity between power source 1642 aand light emitting element 1644 a.

Skeletal structure 1610 a can present a spherical or geodesic shape,such as an American soccer ball shape. Toy 1600 a can also include alogo plate or sheath 1604 a which can be coupled with skeletal structure1610 a. Toy 1600 a also includes a light assembly 1640 a that cantransmit light toward, onto, or through supports 1622 a such as channelsor lumens. Toy 1600 a may also include platform and strut assemblies, asdescribed elsewhere herein. As shown here, logo plate or sheath 1604 acan include any combination of contours, apertures, portions, filters,and the like, as discussed with regard to FIGS. 15A-15C. Optionally, toy1600 a may include a sheath that covers all or part of a single aperture1612 a. Similarly, toy 1600 a may include multiple sheaths that covermultiple apertures. As shown in FIG. 16B, toy 1600 b can includemultiple sheaths, where each aperture of the toy is covered by a sheath.Advantageously, such logo plates, sheaths, or patches can beparticularly useful as an advertising, educational, or informationalmedium. They may include solid and translucent or transparent elements,so as to selectively allow various amounts or colors of light totransmit through specific locations on the plate, patch, or sheath.These elements can also include cut-outs or apertures where light candirectly pass. Relatedly, these elements can be designed to display textor other shapes.

Skeletal structures, segments, struts, platforms, logo plates, sheaths,and other toy elements described herein may be made of any of a varietyof materials. In some embodiments, one or more such elements of a toymay include a durable thermoplastic resin (TPR). For example, a toy mayinclude a skeletal structure with a thermoplastic resin having adurometer or hardness value of about 60. It has been discovered that toyembodiments of the present invention provide desired bouncecharacteristics not found in commonly available toy balls. Exemplary toyembodiments present improved bounceability and resiliency profiles.Bounceability can be characterized, for example, by how high a toybounces, and how many times the toy bounces, when the toy is droppedfrom a distance. Resiliency can relate to how much energy is stored inthe toy when the toy deforms, and subsequently relaxes, upon bouncing.Toy embodiments of the present invention, when dropped from a distance,can bounce highly and for a long period of time, even when dropped froma short distance. In some embodiments, the incorporation of struts intoa toy can enhance or modulate the bounceability or resistance of thetoy. In related embodiments, the incorporation of logo plates, patches,or sheaths can enhance or modulate the bounceability or resistance ofthe toy. In some cases, the bounceability can be modulated by the numberof plates, patches, or sheaths on the toy, or by the hardness orelasticity of these elements. According to some embodiments, when a ballis dropped from a height of six feet, it bounces back to a height of atleast three feet.

According to embodiments of the present invention, interior structuralelements or support modules, such as platforms and struts, can beflexible or depressible. In this way, these interior platforms andstruts can provide resilience or deformability to the overall structureof the toy, and the toy structure can bounce. For example, the toy canbe thrown against or dropped upon a surface, and spring back or reboundin a lively fashion. Often, an interior or core support module, whichmay include one or more struts and optionally one or more platforms, canbe disposed within the skeletal structure so that it resides at thecenter of gravity of the toy. An interior support module may include anydesired number of struts disposed in any desired orientation. Light froma light emitting element can be transmitted along any desired lightpath. For example, light can be transmitted from a platform supportchannel, through a strut support channel, and into a skeletal segmentsupport channel.

In some embodiments, toys may include a processor or light module CPUthat controls a light assembly of the toy. A processor or CPU of the toycan also be configured to contain data or information that can beemitted through small speakers in the toy. The toy may also includepositional or motion sensors, accelerometers, and the like. The toy caninclude a data storage medium for storing data from such sensors. Theprocessor can be configured to access such data, and to also includevoice recognition processing elements. For example, a processor can beprogrammed to recognize a question spoken by the toy user, such as“Ball, how many feet did you go?” The processor can be programmed tocalculate a traveled distance, and to emit the answer in an audibleformat via the speakers. Optionally, a processor can be programmed torecognize spoken statistical questions, and to process such questions byaccessing a statistical database. Hence, a user can ask the toy “Ball,who won the Soccer World Cup in 1966?” and the processor controls thespeakers to emit the answer in an audible fashion.

Embodiments of the present invention provide toys with skeletalstructures and boundary envelopes having any of a variety of shapes. Forexample, such shapes may include spheres, spheroids, prolate spheroids,oblate spheroids, ellipsoids, toroids, geodesic spheres, and the like.Toys may be shaped as any desired useful or functional object, includingwithout limitation bats, balls, lawn lacrosse stick nets, bowling balls,hockey sticks and pucks, flying discs, basketballs, basketball nets,soccer balls, soccer nets, paddles, rackets, paddles with tetheredballs, lawn darts, pool toys, dive toys, bulls eye hoops, lariats,stationary and school supplies, lunch pails, cups, pet toys, teethingtoys, toddler toys, sandbox toys, puzzles, games, bag danglers, bagclips, drink cozies, sandals, and the like.

Skeletal structures, light assemblies, or portions thereof may beconstructed of or include in-molded sections of any desired material.Exemplary materials, include soft touch paint, molded textures thatmatch retail features such as leather patterns, glow in the darkplastics, glitter material, scented plastics, multi-colored plastics,metallic finishes, in mold decoration (IMD) graphics, and the like.Skeletal structures, segments, and other aspects of toy embodiments mayinclude features described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,509,929, 5,110,315,6,086,445, and 7,192,328, and in U.S. patent application Ser. Nos.11/015,387 filed Dec. 16, 2004, 11/152,020 filed Jun. 13, 2005, and11/558,350 filed Nov. 9, 2006. The content of each of these filings isincorporated herein by reference.

Toys may include auxiliary features combined with or integrated with theskeletal structures or light assemblies. For example, a toy can includea sound device or an internal ball or structure. In some cases, lightassemblies, sound devices, and other toy features may bemotion-activated. For example, such toy features may be activated whenthe entire body of the toy is moved or translated in any direction inthree dimensions. Relatedly, such toy features may be activated when thebody of the toy is compressed or deformed. Toys may include motionssensors that detect motion, or compression or stress sensors that detectdeformation.

In some embodiments, one or more toy segments may be coupled with orincorporate a writing instrument or other tool, or may include atherapeutic element or surface, as described in previously incorporatedU.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/152,020 filed Jun. 13, 2005. Forexample, a toy segment may include or be coupled with a ball point pen,retractable pen, pencil, colored pencil, charcoal pencil, mechanicalpencil, fountain pen, dip pen, quill pen, paint brush, gel pen, marker,highlighter, stylographs, crayon, and the like. Similarly, therapeuticelements may include resilient coatings, rotatable or slidable elementson the surface of the segments, heating or cooling of the segments,vibratable elements, encased gels or liquids, various textured surfaces,colors and/or lights, varying sizes, thicknesses and/or levels ofresilience, therapeutic magnets, surfaces that move up and down or inand out, various natural or synthetic materials, such as fabrics,leather, features, fibers, seeds, other plants and the like, scentedmaterials, herbs, flavored materials, sticky surfaces, raised or loweredimages (including brail), lotions, ointments, medicines, lubricants,sponges, porous materials, foams, rubbers, bendable tabs, extensions,spikes, clays or putty, electrical stimulation elements, and the like.Segments can also be configured as a holder for a writing instrumentbody. In some cases, the segments can be arranged so as to prop thewriting instrument body at an angle, disposed above the desk.Alternatively, the segments can be arranged so as to support the writinginstrument body in a horizontal position on the desk. In related cases,the segments will be easily removable or detachable so that if the userdoes not want the segments on the toy body, he or she can simply pullthem off or otherwise disconnect them. Toy segments can be fabricatedfrom or include any of a variety of desired materials, such as metals,polymers, and natural substances such as wood or bamboo. Segments may behollow, solid, porous, fibrous, and the like. Segments can include arubber coating, a rubber coating with raised nodules, a silicone gelcoating, a chemical composite coating, or a compressible rubber coating.In some cases, the segments can include or be coated with materials ofvarying hardness, including thermoplastic rubber, synthetic rubber, andthe like. Embodiments of the present invention encompass stress reliefdevices, performance balls, and pet toys. In some cases, embodimentsinclude baby toys for grasping and teething.

Although certain system, device, and method embodiments have beendisclosed herein, it will be apparent from the foregoing disclosure tothose skilled in the art that variations, modifications, alternativeconstructions, and equivalents of such embodiments may be made withoutdeparting from the true spirit and scope of the invention. Therefore,the above description should not be taken as limiting the scope of theinvention which is defined by the appended claims.

1-20. (canceled)
 21. A bounceable spherical ball toy, comprising: a first toy body portion having a first set of segments and a second set of segments, the first set of segments comprising a first curved segment and a second curved segment, and the second set of segments comprising a first curved segment and a second curved segment; a second toy body portion having a first set of segments and a second set of segments, the first set of segments comprising a first curved segment, a second curved segment, a third curved segment, and a fourth curved segment, and the second set of segments comprising a first curved segment, a second curved segment, a third curved segment, and a fourth curved segment; a first link coupled with the first set of segments of the first toy body portion and the first set of segments of the second toy body portion, the first link disposed at a first end of the ball toy; and a second link coupled with the second set of segments of the first toy body portion and the second set of segments of the second toy body portion, the second link disposed at a second end of the ball toy opposing the first end of the ball toy; wherein the first curved segment of the first set of segments of the first toy body portion intersects the first and second curved segments of the first set of segments of the second toy body portion, the second curved segment of the first set of segments of the first toy body portion intersects the third and fourth curved segments of the first set of segments of the second toy body, the first curved segment of the second set of segments of the first toy body portion intersects the first and second curved segments of the second set of segments of the second toy body portion, and the second curved segment of the second set of segments of the first toy body portion intersects the third and fourth curved segments of the second set of segments of the second toy body portion.
 22. The bounceable spherical ball toy according to claim 21, wherein the first curved segment of the first set of segments of the first toy body portion is coupled with the first curved segment of the second set of segments of the first toy body portion by a first equatorial segment.
 23. The bounceable spherical ball toy according to claim 22, wherein the first curved segment of the first set of segments of the second toy body portion is coupled with the first curved segment of the second set of segments of the second toy body portion by a second equatorial segment.
 24. The bounceable spherical ball toy according to claim 23, wherein the first equatorial segment is coupled with the second equatorial segment by an equatorial link.
 25. The bounceable spherical ball toy according to claim 23, wherein the first equatorial segment is coupled with the second equatorial segment by three curved equatorial links.
 26. The bounceable spherical ball toy according to claim 23, wherein the first equatorial segment is coupled with the second equatorial segment by an equatorial link, and wherein the equatorial link is positioned along a central circumferential portion of the spherical ball toy, the central circumference portion disposed between the first and second ends of the ball toy.
 27. The bounceable spherical ball toy according to claim 23, wherein the first equatorial segment is coupled with the second equatorial segment by a first equatorial link, and wherein the first equatorial link is positioned along a central circumferential portion of the spherical ball toy, the central circumference portion disposed between the first and second ends of the ball toy, wherein the first equatorial segment is further coupled with the second equatorial segment by a second equatorial link, and wherein the second equatorial link is positioned along a first latitudinal circumferential portion of the spherical ball toy, the first latitudinal circumference portion disposed between the central circumference portion and the first end of the ball toy, and wherein the first equatorial segment is further coupled with the second equatorial segment by a third equatorial link, and wherein the third equatorial link is positioned along a second latitudinal circumferential portion of the spherical ball toy, the second latitudinal circumference portion disposed between the central circumference portion and the second end of the ball toy.
 28. The bounceable spherical ball toy according to claim 23, wherein the first curved segment of the first set of segments of the second toy body portion is further coupled with the first curved segment of the second set of segments of the second toy body portion by a third equatorial segment.
 29. The bounceable spherical ball toy according to claim 28, wherein the first equatorial segment is coupled with the second equatorial segment by a first set of three equatorial links, and wherein the second equatorial segment is coupled with the third equatorial segment by a second set of three equatorial links.
 30. The bounceable spherical ball toy according to claim 28, wherein the first equatorial segment is coupled with the second equatorial segment by a first equatorial link, the second equatorial segment is coupled with the third equatorial segment by a second equatorial link, the first and second equatorial links forming at least a portion of an equatorial loop that is positioned along a central circumferential portion of the spherical ball toy, the central circumference portion disposed between the first and second ends of the ball toy.
 31. The bounceable spherical ball toy according to claim 30, wherein the first equatorial link is curved in a first direction, and the second equatorial link is curved in a second direction opposing the first direction.
 32. The bounceable spherical ball toy according to claim 30, wherein the first equatorial link is curved so as to present a concave side and a convex side, the second equatorial link is curved so as to present a concave side and a convex side, and wherein the concave side of the first equatorial link and the convex side of the second equatorial link face toward the first end of the ball toy, and the convex side of the first equatorial link and the concave side of the second equatorial link face toward the second end of the ball toy.
 33. The bounceable spherical ball toy, according to claim 21, further comprising an equatorial loop that is positioned along a central circumferential portion of the spherical ball toy, the central circumference portion disposed between the first and second ends of the ball toy.
 34. The bounceable spherical ball toy according to claim 21, further comprising: a first equatorial loop that is positioned along a central circumferential portion of the spherical ball toy, the central circumference portion disposed between the first and second ends of the ball toy; a second equatorial loop that is positioned along a first latitudinal circumferential portion of the spherical ball toy, the first latitudinal circumferential portion disposed between the central circumference portion and the first end of the ball toy; and a third equatorial loop that is positioned along a second latitudinal circumferential portion of the spherical ball toy, the second latitudinal circumferential portion disposed between the central circumference portion and the second end of the ball toy.
 35. The bounceable spherical ball toy according to claim 34, wherein the first equatorial loop forms a first undulating pattern.
 36. The bounceable spherical ball toy according to claim 35, wherein the second equatorial loop forms a second undulating pattern.
 37. The bounceable spherical ball toy according to claim 36, wherein the first undulating pattern is synchronous with the second undulating pattern.
 38. The bounceable spherical ball toy according to claim 36, wherein the first undulating pattern is asynchronous with the second undulating pattern.
 39. The bounceable spherical ball toy according to claim 36, wherein the third equatorial loop forms a third undulating pattern, and wherein the third undulating pattern is synchronous with the first undulating pattern and asynchronous with the second undulating pattern.
 40. A bounceable ball toy, comprising: a first toy body portion having a first set of curved segments and a second set of curved segments, each curved segment of the first set coupled with a respective curved segment of the second set; a second toy body portion having a first set of curved segments and a second set of curved segments, each curved segment of the first set coupled with a respective curved segment of the second set; a first equatorial loop coupled with the first toy body portion and second toy body portion, the first equatorial loop positioned along a central circumferential portion of the spherical ball toy, the central circumference portion disposed between first and second ends of the ball toy; a second equatorial loop coupled with the first toy body portion and second toy body portion, the second equatorial loop positioned along a first latitudinal circumferential portion of the spherical ball toy, the first latitudinal circumferential portion disposed between the central circumference portion and the first end of the ball toy; and a third equatorial loop coupled with the first toy body portion and second toy body portion, the third equatorial loop positioned along a second latitudinal circumferential portion of the spherical ball toy, the second latitudinal circumferential portion disposed between the central circumference portion and the second end of the ball toy.
 41. A bounceable ball toy, comprising: a first toy body portion having a first set of segments comprising two curved segments and a second set of segments comprising two curved segments; a second toy body portion having a first set of segments comprising four curved segments and a second set of segments comprising four curved segments; a first equatorial link coupled with the first toy body portion and the second toy body portion; and a second equatorial link coupled with the first toy body potion and the second toy body portion, wherein the first equatorial link and the second equatorial link form at least a portion of an undulating equatorial loop that is positioned along a central circumferential portion of the spherical ball toy, the central circumference portion disposed between first and second ends of the ball toy. 